Headache Treatment Melbourne
At Smart Health & Performance, we understand the debilitating impact headaches can have on your well-being. Our chiropractor is skilled in identifying and addressing the root causes of headaches, offering a natural and holistic approach to pain management. Through individualised care, we aim to alleviate tension, improve spinal health, and reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches. The three most common types of headaches are Tension Type Headaches, Cervicogenic Headaches and Migraines, which we will discuss below.
Tension-type headaches, the most common type of headaches and are characterised by a dull, aching pain that is typically felt on both sides of the head, on the temples or behind the eyes. They are often caused by stress, poor posture, or eye strain.
Cervicogenic headaches originate from structural issues in the neck or spine, radiating pain to the head. Poor posture, muscle tension, or injuries to the neck can trigger these headaches. Patients tend to feel the pain at the base of their skull, at the back of the head, and/or into the temples, generally on one side.
Migraines are neurovascular disorders characterised by recurrent, pulsating headaches often accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and an aura. They are triggered by stressors, either physical, chemical or emotional. The pathology of migraines involve abnormal changes in blood flow within the brain. During a migraine attack, blood vessels initially constrict, leading to an aura – visual disturbances or sensory changes. Subsequently, these vessels dilate, causing intense pain. Migraines tend to be the most varied of the headaches, with some sufferers experiencing vertigo, light-headedness and in extreme cases temporary blindness or numbness. Genetic factors also contribute, with certain individuals inheriting a predisposition to migraines.
While these headaches have distinct characteristics, they often share common triggers and risk factors. Stress, poor sleep, and certain foods can exacerbate symptoms across all three types. Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective management, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or manual therapy tailored to the specific headache. At Smart Health & Performance we understand the intricacies of headaches and are here to help.
Please schedule an appointment today.